Government policy is dictated by money

Crises do not just happen. They brew and they show signs of impending danger.

Just like the head of a household chooses to disregard them, so did our elected officials - the people who we trusted with the well being of our country.

Its really as simple as that.

Our elected officials on both sides of the aisle knew or should have known that America's economic engine needed a tuneup. They opted for just an oil change.

I maintain that money has always dictated policy. During elections, the candidates of both major parties promise the American people progress and change.

Unfortunately once elected, these individuals bow to their political machine, their financial donors and their worthy lobbyists.

These control the money and by controlling the money ultimately control policies and agendas.

A president in our form of government is a figure head whose influence is only as valid as the aforementioned powers allow.

Some people think a third party will be more successful in Washington. I beg to differ.

It would eventually succumb to the same influences that drive the other two.

Money dictates policy. It's as simple as that.

Then why bother voting? Honestly it's a great question.

Given the nature of the political animal, the difference in my opinion between people who have a say as to who governs them and those who don't is shrinking more and more.

We give it a chance every four years, hoping our needs are addressed. But are they?

Once these people go to Washington the promises they made become obscure.

Excuses about why these promises are not forthcoming start once more rearing their ugly heads. The commercials, the impromptu shaking of hands at the local malls cease.

It's business as usual until the next election. Is it fair? Is it righteous? No. Is it fact? You tell me.

Helen Loutos

Des Plaines